What is a 'liberal' in no more than a few sentences?

Question

I don't mean what do you think of liberals. I mean what does the word actually mean, what position does it describe?

Guys, thanks for answering but I'd prefer non-pasted answers. I want to know what the word means to you.

Answer 1

One thing "liberal" is not is an ideology. "Conservatism" IS an ideology, on the other hand, since it is rooted in smaller government, lower taxes, and protection of property rights.

So what is "liberal" if it's not an ideology? Simply put, it is an open-minded way of thought and concern for fellow human beings. A willingness to view an issue from a variety of angles, in a dispassionate way, to come to the proper conclusion without bias is a very LIBERAL way to think. It is the opposite of dogma, the opposite of ideology. It is a willingness to step in the other person's shoes, and consider all solutions to problems. It is nuanced, and not simplistic. Finally, a liberal is most concerned about improving the human condition, and tolerating all cultures, belief systems, and points of view. Focus on property, small government, or lower taxes is not relevant to the liberal because they aren't the germaine issues and such thought is narrow minded. Property is not as important as people, government should be large enough and effective enough to solve human problems, and taxes should be sufficient to fund programs that help the collective needs of a society. I've gone more than my allotted "few sentences", but that's how liberals answer questions. Nothing simple about us!

Answer 2

The great thing about liberalism is that it comes in many shades. Therefore it becomes a relative term. Liberal is anything more liberal than you, or him, or her. It's not tied down to any specific point.

On average though, most people consider themselves liberal if they believe the government should only regulate behavior when it has the potential to hurt others.

You can be liberal on some issues and conservative on others. Libertarians consider themselves very liberal but slpit with "classic" liberals on the tax issues. Liberals generally think taxes should be collected (through a progressive tax rate) to create a government that looks out for the whole population (no matter how rich or poor). Libertarians want to be left alone when it comes to taxes, screw everyone else.

Answer 3

The actual meaning of being liberal (as the word is intended) would blow the entire American system of political parties away.

Liberalism:
"is a broad political and philosophical mindset, favoring individual liberty, and opposing restrictions on liberty"

Answer 4

Liberal means an intelligent person with an intelligent approach to most things including politics. So when the lemmings say such and such is a liberal, used as a derogatory term, they are really exposing their narrow mindlessness. Slaves to fixed instruction. Follow the herd - downhill.

Answer 5

Broadly speaking, contemporary liberalism emphasizes individual rights.

It seeks a society characterized by freedom of thought for individuals, limitations on power, especially of government and religion, the rule of law, free public education, the free exchange of ideas, a market economy that supports relatively free private enterprise, and a transparent system of government in which the rights of all citizens are protected.

In modern society, liberals favor a liberal democracy with open and fair elections, where all citizens have equal rights by law and an equal opportunity to succeed.

Answer 6

Liberals are those who are willing to use government to promote freedom but not order. They see a positive role in the government helping the disadvanged. Liberals usually support government spending on social programs.

Answer 7

A wasted VOTE, sums up Liberals,

Answer 8

Golly gosh the meaning of liberal is awwwfully simple for fecks sake if one was to spread a fair amount of marmite on hot buttered toast THEN one would have spread the beloved LIBERALLY maybe what

Answer 9

Liberal can better be described as socialism in action. If what jaylietes said in his comments were true we all would be liberal, but it is in no way shape form or fashion true.

Answer 10

Liberals are very broadminded ----- they are always willing to give careful consideration to both sides of the same side.